Harare, Zimbabwe – My Afrika Magazine proudly celebrates the incredible achievement of its columnist, Kudzai Mhangwa, who recently won the Best Short Story Anthology Award at the 2024 Phoenix Awards. His debut collection, Moments in the Private Room, has captivated readers and critics alike, earning its place as a standout work in Zimbabwean literature.

The award ceremony, held in Harare, recognized Mhangwa’s exceptional storytelling ability. Moments in the Private Room is a masterful exploration of Zimbabwean society, told through a series of piercingly authentic and nuanced short stories. With an uncanny voice that balances satire and heartfelt emotion, Mhangwa weaves together themes of love, friendship, ambition, and human complexity, reflecting the beauty and messiness of life itself.

Described as “iridescent” and “poignantly nuanced,” Moments in the Private Room delves into universal emotions while remaining deeply rooted in Zimbabwean culture. Each story offers a unique lens through which readers can examine life’s perplexities—its burdens, joys, and quiet triumphs. Mhangwa’s ability to articulate shared human experiences has made his debut anthology a must-read for literary enthusiasts.

Mhangwa is a multi-talented creative: a writer, actor, and musician. In addition to his work on My Afrika Magazine, his poetry, plays, essays, and short stories have been featured in House of Mutapa, Atrebla Magazine, Ka’edi Africa, Poetry Soup, and other notable platforms. His versatility and dedication to his craft continue to inspire audiences across various artistic fields.

The award-winning collection was published by Phoenix Publishing, a dynamic global publishing house headquartered in Harare, Zimbabwe. Founded in 2021 by Faith Mudiwa Chipangura, Phoenix Publishing bridges the gap between traditional and self-publishing, empowering new voices to thrive. The company offers mentorship and grooming programs, ensuring writers are equipped to succeed across all genres.

Phoenix Publishing’s mission to elevate emerging talent aligns perfectly with Mhangwa’s journey. As the publishing house’s Founder and CEO, Faith Chipangura stated, “I am grateful for all the authors who keep writing and the platform l get to celebrate their work and contributions to our reading public.”

My Afrika Magazine takes immense pride in Kudzai Mhangwa’s accomplishment, which highlights the incredible talent within Africa’s creative community. As a columnist, Mhangwa has enriched the magazine with his thought-provoking pieces, and his success serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers across the continent.

Congratulations, Kudzai Mhangwa, on this well-deserved recognition. Your artistry has not only illuminated the pages of your anthology but also elevated the entire African literary landscape.

For inquiries about Kudzai Mhangwa or Moments in the Private Room, contact Phoenix Publishing at info@phoenixpublishing.co.zw.